Methods and devices for minimally invasive spinal fixation element placement

ABSTRACT

Minimally invasive methods and devices for introducing a spinal fixation element into a surgical site in a patient&#39;s spinal column are provided. In general, the method involves advancing a spinal fixation element in a first, lengthwise orientation along a pathway extending from a minimally invasive percutaneous incision to a spinal anchor site. As the spinal fixation element approaches the spinal anchor site, the fixation element can be manipulated to extend in a second orientation, which is preferably substantially transverse to the first orientation, to position the fixation element in relation to one or more spinal anchors.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/309,944 filed on Dec. 2, 2011 and entitled “Methods and Devices for Minimally Invasive Spinal Fixation Element Placement,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/365,711 filed on Feb. 4, 2009 and entitled “Methods and Devices for Minimally Invasive Spinal Fixation Element Placement,” (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,105,361) which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/738,130 filed on Dec. 16, 2003 and entitled “Methods and Devices for Minimally Invasive Spinal Fixation Element Placement” (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,527,638). These references are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This application relates to tools for use in spinal surgery, and in particular to minimally invasive methods and devices for introducing a spinal fixation element to one or more spinal anchor sites within a patient's spine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For a number of known reasons, spinal fixation devices are used in orthopedic surgery to align and/or fix a desired relationship between adjacent vertebral bodies. Such devices typically include a spinal fixation element, such as a relatively rigid fixation rod, that is coupled to adjacent vertebrae by attaching the element to various anchoring devices, such as hooks, bolts, wires, or screws. The fixation elements can have a predetermined contour that has been designed according to the properties of the target implantation site, and once installed, the instrument holds the vertebrae in a desired spatial relationship, either until desired healing or spinal fusion has taken place, or for some longer period of time.

Spinal fixation elements can be anchored to specific portions of the vertebrae. Since each vertebra varies in shape and size, a variety of anchoring devices have been developed to facilitate engagement of a particular portion of the bone. Pedicle screw assemblies, for example, have a shape and size that is configured to engage pedicle bone. Such screws typically include a threaded shank that is adapted to be threaded into a vertebra, and a head portion having a rod-receiving element, usually in the form of a U-shaped slot formed in the head. A set-screw, plug, or similar type of fastening mechanism is used to lock the fixation element, e.g., a spinal rod, into the rod-receiving head of the pedicle screw. In use, the shank portion of each screw is threaded into a vertebra, and once properly positioned, a rod is seated through the rod-receiving member of each screw and the rod is locked in place by tightening a cap or other fastener mechanism to securely interconnect each screw and the fixation rod.

Recently, the trend in spinal surgery has been moving toward providing minimally invasive devices and methods for implanting spinal fixation devices. One such method, for example, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,530,929 of Justis et al. and it utilizes two percutaneous access devices for implanting an anchoring device, such as a spinal screw, into adjacent vertebrae. A spinal rod is then introduced through a third incision a distance apart from the percutaneous access sites, and the rod is transversely moved into the rod-engaging portion of each spinal screw. The percutaneous access devices can then be used to apply closure mechanisms to the rod-engaging heads to lock the rod therein. While this procedure offers advantages over prior art invasive techniques, the transverse introduction of the rod can cause significant damage to surrounding tissue and muscle. Moreover, the use of three separate access sites can undesirably lengthen the surgical procedure, and increase patient trauma and recovery time.

Accordingly, there remains a need for improved minimally invasive devices and methods for introducing a spinal fixation element into a patient's spine.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides minimally invasive methods and devices for delivering a spinal fixation element to one or more spinal anchor sites in a patient's spinal column. In one embodiment, a spinal anchor is percutaneously delivered to a vertebral body with a percutaneous access device mated thereto and having a lumen extending therethrough and defining a longitudinal axis. A spinal fixation element is then advanced through the lumen in the percutaneous access device in a first, lengthwise orientation in which the fixation element is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device. The spinal fixation element can then be manipulated to extend in a second orientation, such that the fixation element is angled with respect to the first orientation, to position the spinal fixation element in relation to the spinal anchor. The method can also include the step of percutaneously delivering a second spinal anchor to a vertebral body with a second percutaneous access device mated thereto. The spinal fixation element thus preferably extends between the first and second spinal anchors in the second orientation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the percutaneous access device is in the form of an elongate, generally cylindrical tube that is adapted for percutaneous delivery and that is adapted to mate to a spinal anchor. The tube can include proximal and distal ends with a lumen extending therebetween. The lumen is adapted to transport a spinal fixation element therethrough in a first, lengthwise orientation that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device, and to deliver the spinal fixation element to a spinal anchor site in a second orientation that is angled with respect to the first orientation, and more preferably that is substantially parallel to a patient's spinal column. The percutaneous access device can also include at least one sidewall opening extending from the distal end of the elongate, generally cylindrical tube through at least a portion thereof for facilitating transition of a spinal fixation element from the first orientation to the second orientation. In one embodiment, the device includes opposed sidewall openings formed therein adjacent to the distal end thereof. The device can also optionally or alternatively include a guide member formed within the lumen that is adapted to direct a spinal fixation element disposed therein from the first orientation to the second orientation. The guide member can be, for example, a sloped shelf formed within the lumen of the percutaneous access device.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a minimally invasive method for delivering a spinal fixation element to a spinal anchor site in a patient's spinal column is provided. The method includes the step of introducing a spinal fixation element into a lumen of a percutaneous access device. The lumen preferably forms a pathway to a spinal anchor disposed in a patient's vertebra. In an exemplary embodiment, the percutaneous access device has an outer diameter that is substantially the same as or less than a largest width of the spinal anchor to which it is attached. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the outer diameter of the percutaneous access device can optionally be greater than the outer diameter of the spinal anchor to which it is attached. The method further includes the steps of advancing the spinal fixation element distally through the lumen in a first, lengthwise orientation that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device, and manipulating the spinal fixation element into a second orientation that is substantially parallel to the patient's spinal column. The spinal fixation element can then be positioned relative to one or more spinal anchors.

In other aspects of the present invention, a minimally invasive surgical method is provided that includes the steps of making a first percutaneous incision in a patient, and creating a first pathway from the first percutaneous incision to an anchor site on a first vertebral body. Preferably, the pathway is a minimally invasive pathway such that it leads only to a single anchor site, rather than multiple anchor sites. This can be achieved, for example, by a percutaneous access device that has a substantially uniform width from the first percutaneous incision to a first anchor site on a first vertebral body. In an exemplary embodiment, the first pathway has a width that is substantially equal to or less than a width of the first percutaneous incision, and/or that is substantially equal to or less than a width of a first anchor. The method also includes the steps of placing a first anchor through the first percutaneous incision, advancing the first anchor along the first pathway to the single anchor site, and placing a fixation element through the first pathway in an orientation substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first pathway.

In a further embodiment, a second percutaneous incision can be made in a patient, and a second minimally invasive pathway can be created from the second percutaneous incision to a second anchor site on a second vertebral body. A second anchor is then advanced along the second pathway to the second anchor site on the second vertebral body.

Additional methods and devices for introducing a spinal fixation element to one or more spinal anchor sites are also provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a percutaneous access device coupled to an anchor according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a partially cut-away view of another embodiment of a percutaneous access device having a guide member formed therein;

FIG. 3B is a partially cut-away view of the percutaneous access device shown in FIG. 3A having a sleeve disposed therearound and a spinal anchor mated thereto;

FIG. 4A is a posterior view of three percutaneous incisions formed in the thoracolumbar fascia of a patient's back;

FIG. 4B is a posterior view of six percutaneous incisions formed in the thoracolumbar fascia of a patient's back;

FIG. 5A is an end view showing a blunt dissection of the muscles surrounding a patient's vertebra;

FIG. 5B is an end view of the vertebra shown in FIG. 5A showing a technique for separating the muscles along the dissection muscle plane to gain access to the vertebra;

FIG. 6 is an end view of the vertebra shown in FIG. 4 showing placement of a k-wire through the incision and into the patient's vertebra;

FIG. 7 is an end view of the vertebra shown in FIG. 6 having an obturator and several dilators disposed over the k-wire to dilate the tissue and muscles;

FIG. 8 is perspective view of a first spinal anchor implanted in a vertebra and having a percutaneous access device coupled thereto and extending through a percutaneous incision formed in the patient's tissue surface, and a second spinal anchor being implanted into an adjacent vertebra and having a percutaneous access device coupled thereto with a driver tool extending therethrough;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of two percutaneous access devices attached to spinal anchors that are disposed within adjacent vertebrae in a patient's spinal column;

FIG. 10 illustrates a method for introducing a spinal fixation element through a partially cut-away view of one of the percutaneous access devices shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the spinal fixation element shown in FIG. 10 being advanced in toward the spinal anchors using a pusher device;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the spinal fixation element shown in FIG. 11 after it is fully positioned within receiver heads of the adjacent spinal anchors;

FIG. 13 illustrates a method for introducing a spinal fixation element through a partially cut-away view of the percutaneous access device shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the spinal fixation element shown in FIG. 13 being advanced toward the spinal anchors using a pusher device;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the spinal fixation element shown in FIG. 14 advanced further toward the receiver heads of the adjacent spinal anchors;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the spinal fixation element shown in FIG. 15 about to be disposed within the receiver heads of the adjacent spinal anchors; and

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a compression tool positioned around the percutaneous access devices shown in FIG. 12 and compressing the devices toward one another, and a closure mechanism being applied through one of the percutaneous access devices to lock the spinal fixation element in relation to the spinal anchor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides minimally invasive methods and devices for introducing a spinal fixation element into a surgical site in a patient's spinal column. In general, the method involves advancing a spinal fixation element in a lengthwise orientation along a minimally invasive pathway that extends from a minimally invasive percutaneous incision to a spinal anchor site. In an exemplary embodiment, a percutaneous access device is used to create the minimally invasive pathway for receiving the spinal fixation element and for delivering the fixation element to a spinal anchor site. The spinal fixation element is preferably inserted through a lumen in the percutaneous access device in a lengthwise orientation, such that the spinal fixation element is oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device. As the spinal fixation element approaches or reaches the distal end of the pathway, the spinal fixation element can be manipulated to orient it at a desired angle with respect to the percutaneous access device, preferably such that the spinal fixation element is substantially parallel to the patient's spinal column. The spinal fixation element can then optionally be positioned to couple it, either directly or indirectly, to one or more spinal anchors. A fastening element or other closure mechanism, if necessary, can then be introduced into the spinal anchor site to fixedly mate the spinal fixation element to the anchor(s).

The methods and devices of the present invention are particularly advantageous in that they can be achieved using one or more minimally invasive percutaneous incisions for accessing the spinal column. Such incisions minimize damage to intervening tissues, and they reduce recovery time and post-operative pain. The present invention also advantageously provides techniques for delivering spinal fixation elements and anchors along a minimally invasive pathway, thus eliminating the need to create a large working area at the surgical site.

While a variety of devices can be used to perform the methods of the present invention, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a percutaneous access device 12 that is mated to a spinal anchor 50 (FIG. 1) to form a spinal implant assembly 10. As shown, the device 12 is in the form of a generally elongate, cylindrical tube having an inner lumen 12 c formed therein and defining a longitudinal axis L that extends between proximal and distal ends 12 a, 12 b. The size of the access device 12 can vary depending on the intended use, but it should have a length l that allows the proximal end 12 a of the access device 12 to be positioned outside the patient's body, while the distal end 12 b of the access device 12 is coupled to, or positioned adjacent to, a spinal anchor, e.g., anchor 50, that is disposed in a vertebra in a patient's spine. The access device 12 is also preferably adapted to provide a minimally invasive pathway for the delivery of a spinal fixation element, and in particular, the percutaneous access device 12 should also be adapted to be implanted through a minimally invasive percutaneous incision, which is a relatively small incision that typically has a length that is less than a diameter or width of the device being inserted therethrough.

In an exemplary embodiment, the device 12 has an inner diameter d_(i) that is sufficient to allow a spinal fixation element to be introduced therethrough, preferably in a lengthwise orientation. The inner diameter d_(i) can also optionally be configured to allow a driver mechanism to be introduced therethrough for applying a closure mechanism to lock the spinal fixation element in relation to a spinal anchor. The outer diameter d_(o) of the access device 12 can also vary, and it can be the same as, less than, or greater than an outer diameter d_(r) of the spinal anchor. In the illustrated embodiment, the access device 12 has an outer diameter d_(o) that is substantially the same as an outer diameter d_(r) of the spinal anchor, which, as illustrated in FIG. 1, is the receiver head 52 of a spinal screw 50. This is particularly advantageous in that the size of the incision does not need to be any larger than necessary. The matching outer diameters d_(o), d_(r) of the access device 12 and the anchor 50 also allow the access device 12 and/or the anchor 50 to be introduced through a cannula. If the access device 12 is mated to the anchor 50, the matching outer diameters d_(o), d_(r) also allows a sleeve or other device to be slidably disposed therearound to prevent disengagement between the access device 12 and the anchor 50. In another, exemplary embodiment, the outer diameter d_(o) of the access device 12 can be slightly greater than the outer diameter d_(r) of the spinal anchor. By way of non-limiting example, where a receiver head of the spinal anchor has an outer diameter d_(r) that is about 13 mm, the access device 12 preferably has an outer diameter d_(o) that is about 15 mm.

The percutaneous access device 12 also preferably includes at least one sidewall opening or slot 14 formed therein, and more preferably it includes two opposed sidewall openings (only one opening 14 is shown) formed therein and extending proximally from the distal end 12 b thereof. The openings 14 allow a spinal fixation element to be introduced through the device 12 in a first, lengthwise orientation, in which the spinal fixation element is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the access device 12. The spinal fixation element can then to be manipulated to extend at an angle with respect to the first orientation, such that the fixation element extends in a direction substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the access device 12, for example, in a direction that is substantially parallel to the patient's spine. Since the length L of the spinal fixation element will necessarily be greater than the inner diameter d_(i) of the access device 12, the openings 14 allow the spinal fixation element to pass therethrough while being transitioned from the first, lengthwise orientation to the second orientation. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the exact position of the spinal fixation element with respect to the longitudinal axis L will of course vary depending on the configuration of the spinal fixation element.

The shape and size of each opening 14 can vary, but the opening(s) 14 should be effective to allow movement of the spinal fixation element from the first orientation to the second orientation. In an exemplary embodiment, the openings 14 extend over about half of the length, or less than half of the length, of the percutaneous access device 12. The shape of each slot 14 can be generally elongate, and they should each have a width w that is sufficient to accommodate the diameter of the spinal fixation element. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the percutaneous access device 12 can include any number of sidewall openings having any shape that is sufficient to allow a spinal fixation element to be moved from the first orientation to the second orientation.

In another embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the percutaneous access device 112 can also optionally include a guide member 120 formed within the distal end 112 b of the lumen 112 c to help guide the spinal fixation element from the first orientation to the second orientation. The guide member 120 can have a variety of configurations, but it should be effective to guide the spinal fixation element from the first orientation toward the anchor 50 attached to, or positioned adjacent to, the access device 112, and optionally toward anchor(s) implanted in adjacent vertebrae. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown, the guide member 120 is in the form of a sloped shelf formed within the inner lumen 112 c of the access device 112 and preferably positioned opposite to a single sidewall slot 114 formed in the access device 112. The sloped shelf 120 can vary in shape and size depending on the type of fixation element being used and/or the geometry of the access device. In use, as the leading end of a spinal fixation element, such as a spinal rod, contacts the shelf 120, the shelf 120 begins to direct the spinal fixation element into the second orientation, thereby causing the spinal fixation element to extend in a direction that is substantially transverse to the axis L of the device 112, and that is preferably substantially parallel to the patient's spinal column. The spinal fixation element can then be manipulated to position it in relation to one or more spinal anchors, as will be discussed in more detail below.

Referring back to FIG. 1, in use, the percutaneous access device 12 can be adapted to attach to a spinal anchor 50. Accordingly, the distal end 12 c of the percutaneous access device 12 can include one or more mating elements 18 formed thereon or therein for engaging the anchor 50. Suitable mating elements include, for example, threads, a twist-lock engagement, a snap-on engagement, or any other technique known in the art, and in an exemplary embodiment the mating elements are formed on opposed inner surfaces of the distal end 12 b of the access device 12. A sleeve 100 (partially shown in FIG. 3B) or other device, preferably having sidewall openings (not shown) that correspond with the sidewall openings 14 formed in the percutaneous access device 12, can also be placed over the percutaneous access device 12, and optionally over the implant 50 as well, to prevent disengagement of the access device 12 from the implant 50 during use. Exemplary techniques for mating the percutaneous access device 12 to an anchor are disclosed in a patent application entitled “Percutaneous Access Devices and Bone Anchor Assemblies,” filed concurrently herewith. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of other techniques can be used to removably mate the percutaneous access device to an anchor.

For reference purposes, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary spinal anchor for use with the methods and devices of the present invention. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of anchors can be used with the devices and methods of the present invention, including, for example, spinal screws, hooks, bolts, and wires. FIG. 1 illustrates a spinal screw that includes a distal, bone-engaging portion, e.g., a threaded shank 54, and a proximal, U-shaped, receiver head 52 that is adapted to seat a spinal fixation element, preferably a spinal rod (not shown). The threaded shank 54 can be fixedly attached to the receiver head 52 to form a monoaxial screw, or alternatively the shank 54 can be configured as a polyaxial screw, as shown, that is rotatably disposed through an opening formed in the distal end of the receiver head 52 to allow rotation of the shank 54 with respect to the receiver head 52. A variety of techniques can be used to allow rotation of the head 52 with respect to the shank 54.

FIGS. 4A-17 show a minimally invasive method of implanting a spinal fixation element. While the method is shown and described in connection with the percutaneous access device 12 and spinal screw 50 disclosed herein, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the method is not limited to use with such devices, and that a variety of other devices known in the art can be used. Moreover, while only two access devices 12, 12′ and two anchors 50, 50′ are shown in FIGS. 4-14, the method of the present invention can be performed using any number of access devices and anchors. The method can also be performed using only some of the method steps disclosed herein, and/or using other methods known in the art.

The procedure preferably begins by forming a minimally invasive percutaneous incision through the tissue located adjacent to the desired implant site. While the location, shape, and size of the incision will depend on the type and quantity of spinal anchors being implanted, FIG. 4A illustrates three midline minimally invasive percutaneous incisions 62 a-c formed on one side of three adjacent vertebra in the thoracolumbar fascia in the patient's back, and FIG. 4B illustrates three additional midline minimally invasive percutaneous incisions 62 d-f formed on the opposite side of the three adjacent vertebra in the thoracolumbar fascia in the patient's back. Each incision 62 a-f is a stab incision that has a diameter of about 10-20 mm in diameter, however this can vary depending on the procedure. In an exemplary embodiment, each incision 62 a-f has a diameter that is equal to or less than a largest diameter of the anchor and/or the percutaneous access device being inserted therethrough. While probably not necessary, once the percutaneous incisions 62 a-f are formed, blunt finger dissection can optionally be used, as shown in FIG. 5A-5B, to separate the longissimus thoracis and multifidus muscles, thereby exposing the facet and the junction of the transverse process and superior articular process.

As shown in FIG. 6, a guide wire, e.g., a k-wire 64, can be implanted, either prior to or after formation of the incision, at each spinal anchor implant site. The k-wire 64 preferably extends between the muscles and into the vertebra at the desired entry point of the spinal anchor. Fluoroscopy is typically used to facilitate proper placement of the k-wire 64.

The opposed ends of the incision can then be dilated to provide a pathway for delivery of a spinal anchor to each implant site. FIG. 7 illustrates dilation at one end of the incision 62 using an obturator 66 a having several dilators 66 b, 66 c of increasing size placed there over. The dilators 66 b, 66 c are delivered over the obturator 66 a and k-wire 64 to essentially stretch the skin around the incision 62 and to expand the pathway to the anchor site.

Once the incision 62 is dilated to the proper size, an anchor can be delivered to each anchor site, as shown in FIG. 8. This procedure typically involves preparation of the vertebra 60 using one or more bone preparation instruments, such as drills, taps, awls, burrs, probes, etc. While not always necessary, one or more cannulae can be used to provide a pathway from the incision 62 to the anchor site for insertion of the bone preparation instruments and/or the anchor. In an exemplary embodiment, a relatively small cannula is used to introduce bone preparation instruments into the surgical site. The incision 62 can then be further dilated, and the small cannula can be replaced with a larger cannula that is adapted to receive or mate to the anchor.

Once the vertebra 60 is prepared, a spinal anchor can be implanted at each implant site. An access device 12, 12′ can be mated to each anchor 50, 50′ after insertion of the anchor 50, 50′ into bone 60, 60′, but more preferably each percutaneous access device 12, 12′ is attached to the anchor 50, 50′ prior to insertion of the anchor 50, 50′ into bone 60, 60′ to provide a passageway for a driver tool for driving the anchor 50 into bone 60, 60′. FIG. 8 illustrates anchor 50 implanted in a first vertebra 60 and having access device 12 attached thereto. While not shown, the anchor 50 is preferably cannulated to allow the k-wire 64 to extend through the anchor 50 and the access device 12 to guide the devices 50, 12 toward the implant site. FIG. 8 further illustrates a second anchor 50′ having an access device 12′ mated thereto. As shown, the screw 50′ is about to be implanted in a second vertebra 60′ that is adjacent to the first vertebra 60. Once the screw 50′ is positioned adjacent to the vertebra 60′, a driver tool 200 can be positioned through the access device 12′ and coupled to the receiver head 52′ of the screw 50′ to drive the screw 50′ into the vertebra 60′.

In another embodiment, a sleeve can be placed over each access device 12, 12′, either prior to or after the devices 12, 12′, 50, 50′ are implanted, to prevent the devices 12, 12′ from becoming disengaged from the anchors 50, 50′ to which they are attached. The sleeve 100, which is partially illustrated in FIG. 3B, is preferably in the form of a cannula that has substantially the same configuration as each access device 12, 12′. The use of a sleeve is particularly desirable where the access devices 12, 12′ utilize pin members that engage corresponding detents formed on an outer surface of each screw head 52, 52′, as the sleeve will prevent the pin members from becoming disengaged from the detents. The sleeve can also optionally serve as an access device, allowing access devices 12, 12′ to be detached and removed from the anchors 50, 50′.

After the anchors 50, 50′ are implanted, a spinal fixation element 70 is delivered to the anchor site. This can be achieved by introducing the spinal fixation element 70 through one of the percutaneous access devices 12, 12′ that is attached to the anchor 50, 50′, or through some other percutaneous access device that provides a pathway to the anchor(s) 50, 50′. As shown in FIG. 10, a spinal fixation element, e.g., a spinal rod 70, is introduced into device 12 in a first, lengthwise orientation, such that the spinal fixation element 70 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the access device 12. Where the fixation element has a curved orientation or it has some other configuration, it is understood that the fixation element is in the “substantially parallel” orientation when it is positioned lengthwise through the percutaneous access device.

The spinal fixation element 70 is then moved distally toward the distal end 12 b of the percutaneous access device 12, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. Movement of the spinal fixation element 70 can be achieved using a manipulator device 80. The manipulator device 80 can have a variety of configurations, but it should be effective to allow controlled movement of the fixation element 70. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of other techniques can be used to guide the spinal fixation element 70 through the percutaneous access device 12 and to position the spinal fixation element 70 in relation to one or more anchors 50, 50′. Moreover, the spinal fixation element 70 can have a variety of configurations to facilitate insertion through a percutaneous access device. By way of non-limiting example, a patent application entitled “Flexible Spinal Fixation Elements,” and filed concurrently herewith, discloses a spinal fixation element that can be flexed as it is passed through a percutaneous access device, thereby allowing the spinal fixation element to transition from the first orientation to the second orientation. The application also discloses techniques for delivering the spinal fixation element along a guide wire or cable, thus eliminating the need for a manipulator device. Other spinal fixation elements suitable for use with the present invention, in addition to mechanical and flexible fixation elements, include, for example, inflatable fixation elements such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0068975, entitled “Formable Orthopedic Fixation System with Cross Linking” by Teitelbaum et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0082600, entitled “Formable Orthopedic Fixation System” by Shaolian et al., and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0198526, entitled “Formed In Place Fixation System With Thermal Acceleration” by Shaolian et al., each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, as the spinal fixation element 70 approaches the distal end 12 b of the access device 12, the spinal fixation element 70 can be manipulated to cause the spinal fixation element 70 to assume a second orientation that is different from the first orientation, and more preferably that is substantially parallel to the patient's spinal column and/or transverse to the first orientation. It is understood that the angle of the fixation element 70 in the second orientation will vary depending on the type of fixation device being implanted, as well as the orientation of the access device 12, which can vary throughout the surgical procedure since the access device 12 can be positioned at several angles with respect to the patient's spinal column.

During transition of the spinal fixation element 70 from the first orientation to the second orientation, a leading end of the spinal fixation element 70 should be subcutaneously positioned. Where the access device 12 includes slots or openings (only one opening 14 is shown), the opening(s) 14 can be used to facilitate movement of the spinal fixation element 70 into the second orientation as they will allow the spinal fixation element 70 to extend therethrough during rotation. This may not be necessary, however, depending on the length of the openings 14, the length of the spinal fixation element 70, and/or the configuration of the spinal fixation element 70. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, only the leading end 70 a of the spinal fixation element 70 exits the percutaneous access device 12 through one of the openings 14.

Referring to FIG. 12, manipulation of the spinal fixation element 70 is continued until the spinal fixation element 70 is positioned in relation to one or more spinal anchors. Depending on the type of spinal anchor used, the fixation element can be positioned to be directly or indirectly mated to the spinal anchor. As shown in FIG. 12, the fixation element 70 is fully seated in the receiver heads 52, 52′ of the adjacent spinal anchors 50, 50′. The manipulator device 80, if used, can then be removed from the access device 12.

In another embodiment, the percutaneous access device 112 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B can be used to facilitate introduction of a spinal fixation element into a surgical anchor site. As previously stated, access device 112 includes a guide member 120 formed therein to direct the spinal fixation element 70 from the first orientation to the second orientation. This is illustrated in FIGS. 13-16. As shown, as the spinal fixation element 70 is moved distally to come into contact with the guide member 120, the guide member 120 causes the spinal fixation element 70 to rotate and extend toward the opening 114 in the percutaneous access device 112. As a result, the spinal fixation element 70 is directed into the second orientation, whereby it can be positioned in or adjacent to the receiver heads 52, 52′ of the adjacent spinal implants 50, 50′.

Referring back to FIG. 12, once the spinal fixation element 70 is fully seated in the receiver heads 52, 52′ of the adjacent spinal anchors 50, 50′, the pusher shaft 80, if used, can then be removed or detached from the spinal fixation element 70, and a closure mechanism can be applied to one or both receiver heads 52, 52′ to retain the spinal fixation element 70 therein. In an exemplary embodiment, however, a compression tool 100 is used to compress the access devices 12, 12′ toward one another prior to applying a closure mechanism to each anchor 50, 50′. The closure mechanism(s) can, however, be partially applied before compression.

An exemplary compression tool 300 is shown in FIG. 17, and in general it includes opposed arms 302, 304 that are pivotally coupled to one another at a substantial mid-point thereof such that each arm 302, 304 includes a distal portion 302 b, 304 b that is adapted to be disposed around a percutaneous access device 12, 12′, and a proximal, handle portion 302 a, 304 a. The device 300 can also include a fulcrum (not shown) that is disposed between the arms 302, 304 to facilitate controlled movement of the arms 302, 304 with respect to one another. In use, the distal portion 302 b, 304 b of each arm 302, 304 is placed around an access device 12, 12′, preferably around the distal end 12 b, 12 b′ of each device 12, 12′ and/or around the head 52, 52′ of each anchor 50, 50′. The proximal, handle portions 302 a, 304 a are then brought toward one another to move the access devices 12, 12′ toward one another, preferably while maintaining relative spacing therebetween, as shown in FIG. 17.

Once properly positioned, a closure mechanism can be applied, preferably via the access devices 12, 12′, to each anchor head 50, 50′ to retain the spinal fixation element 70 within the receiver heads 52, 52′. A variety of closure mechanisms and tools for delivering closure mechanisms are known in the art and they can be used with the present invention. By way of non-limiting example, FIG. 13 illustrates driver tool 200 disposed through access device 12 for applying a closure mechanism, such as a set screw, to the receiver head 52 of the spinal anchor 50 to lock the spinal fixation element 70 with respect to the spinal anchor 50. This step can be repeated for the adjacent spinal anchor(s).

A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the spinal fixation element 70 does not need to be directly attached to each anchor 50, 50′, and that it can be indirectly attached to the anchors 50, 50′ using, for example, a band clamp, or slotted or offset connectors.

Once the fixation element 70 is secured in relation to the implants 50, 50′, the access devices 12, 12′ can be removed from the implants 50, 50′, leaving only minimally invasive percutaneous incisions in the patient where each access device 12, 12′ was introduced. This is particularly advantageous in that it reduces the amount of trauma caused to the patient, and it minimizes the damage to muscle surrounding the surgical site.

As previously stated, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the method can be performed in any sequence using any of the steps. Moreover, the access devices of the present invention can be used to deliver multiple spinal fixation elements simultaneously or sequentially, and/or to perform a variety of other surgical procedures not illustrated or described herein.

One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A minimally invasive method of delivering a spinal fixation element, comprising: delivering a first spinal anchor to a first vertebra with a percutaneous access device mated to the first spinal anchor delivering a second spinal anchor to a second vertebra; introducing a spinal fixation element into the percutaneous access device and advancing the spinal fixation element distally relative to the percutaneous access device; and subcutaneously passing a leading end of the spinal fixation element out of the percutaneous access device through a slot formed in a sidewall of the percutaneous access device to position the leading end of the spinal fixation element in the second spinal anchor disposed in the second vertebra.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the slot extends along only about half a length of the percutaneous access device.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the spinal fixation element is pivoted with respect to the percutaneous access device by a manipulator coupled to a trailing end of the spinal fixation element.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the manipulator passes at least partially into the percutaneous access device as it pivots the spinal fixation element.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the leading end of the spinal fixation element is passed through the slot subcutaneously.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the spinal fixation element is pivoted from a position in which it is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the percutaneous access device to a position in which it is substantially parallel to the patient's spinal column.
 7. A minimally invasive method for delivering a spinal fixation element, comprising: implanting a first spinal screw into a first vertebra, the first spinal screw having a first percutaneous access device mated to opposed arms on a proximal end thereof; implanting a second spinal screw into a second vertebra that is adjacent to the first vertebra, the second spinal screw having a second percutaneous access device mated to opposed arms on a proximal end thereof; and advancing a spinal fixation element distally relative to the first percutaneous access device; subcutaneously passing a leading end of the spinal fixation element out of a slot formed in a sidewall of the first percutaneous access device to position the leading end between the opposed arms of the second spinal screw.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the slot extends along only about half a length of the first percutaneous access device.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the second percutaneous access device has opposed slots that align with openings formed by the opposed arms of the second spinal screw when the second percutaneous access device is mated to the second spinal screw.
 10. The method of claim 7, further comprising placing a sleeve over each of the first and second percutaneous access devices to prevent the first and second percutaneous access devices from becoming disengaged from the first and second spinal screws.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the sleeves are placed over the first and second percutaneous access devices before the implanting steps.
 12. The method of claim 7, further comprising manipulating the spinal fixation element to be seated between the opposed arms of the first spinal screw.
 13. A minimally invasive method of delivering a spinal fixation element, comprising: implanting a first spinal anchor into a first vertebra, the first spinal anchor having a first percutaneous access device mated to opposed arms on a proximal end thereof; implanting a second spinal anchor into a second vertebra, the second spinal anchor having a second percutaneous access device mated to opposed arms on a proximal end thereof; advancing the spinal fixation element distally relative to the first percutaneous access device using a manipulator attached to a proximal end of the spinal fixation element; subcutaneously passing a leading end of the spinal fixation element out of the first percutaneous access device to position the leading end between the opposed arms of the second spinal anchor.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first percutaneous access device is the same as the second percutaneous access device.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the second percutaneous access device has opposed slots that align with openings formed by the opposed arms of the second spinal anchor when the second percutaneous access device is mated to the second spinal anchor.
 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising placing a sleeve over each of the first and second percutaneous access devices to prevent the first and second percutaneous access devices from becoming disengaged from the first and second spinal anchors.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the sleeves are placed over the first and second percutaneous access devices before the implanting steps.
 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising manipulating the spinal fixation element to be seated between the opposed arms of the first spinal anchor. 